New technologies on the LAN for smart buildings
18. January 2022
8 Min read
Gradual but steady uptake of Single Pair Ethernet
Originally developed for the automotive industry, Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) cabling based on xBASE-T1 using a single twisted pair for data transmission is increasingly being adopted in manufacturing and building automation. Several analyst firms (KTVN, Global Market Vision, 650, MarketPrimes, MR Accuracy Reports…) predict that the Global Single Pair Ethernet market will rise at a considerable rate between 2021 and 2026.
SPE is replacing traditional field bus connections, which (unlike SPE) do not penetrate all automation levels. ‘Environment-agnostic’ SPE makes it possible to integrate field devices, sensors, and actuators into an existing Ethernet environment, without extra gateways and interfaces.
As building management becomes increasingly digital and IP-based, SPE will support new network structures, such as the digital ceiling, for the cabling of the final few meters. This allows all areas of building automation to be integrated into a structured solution concept. The introduction of smart, converged networks means energy-conserving technologies and applications can be introduced, such as intelligent management of building space, resources, and LED lighting.
The ability to transmit up to 50W along with data and control signals (Power over Digital Line, or PoDL) makes SPE an ideal solution for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications, such as connecting large numbers of sensors and actuators. SPE can increase density and enable fast connections, and easy installations. SPE Hybrid solutions with increased power capabilities using separate conductors for power and data are also under development. Looking at developments in IoT and enterprise 4.0, we see traditional PLC technology moving to IP.
SPE can also be used in commercial monitoring applications, as well as hospitals, hotels, and malls, to enable advanced data & power solutions while taking up a minimum of space. Synergies reduce operating expenses and manufacturer-neutral standard products can be used. IT and field bus components are integrated, installation and maintenance are simplified, and the costs of material and operating expenses are reduced. Compared to traditional Ethernet cabling (with RJ45 form factor) the SPE approach offers a significantly higher number of possible connection points.
The ongoing convergence of LAN, Building-Automation, and an ALL-IP approach
Formerly disparate systems such as lighting, facility management, and HVAC are increasingly sharing network infrastructure with data and telecommunication, relying on IP as a common medium. We are currently seeing growing demand for infrastructure that allows a wide range of functionalities to be managed and monitored over converged LAN-based networks. These also need to be capable of powering large numbers of remote devices. The convergence of LAN and Building Management helps reduce the cost of labor and devices. This converged infrastructure is also making structured cabling less complex and makes device implementation faster, more efficient, and more flexible.
The current Internet Protocol version (IPv6) can theoretically allocate some 1,500 IP addresses per square meter. Networks can be scaled up (or down) with relative ease, and devices can be added without affecting network performance or reliability. IP will increasingly replace previously separate systems, transporting data along with power, lighting, security, and more. IP-based convergence enables the sharing of (virtualized) resources across applications and provides high levels of standardization, availability, reliability, and support for new deployments. Another key benefit of ‘All IP’ networks is improved safety. Unlike conventional field bus systems, IP features built-in safety features for authentication and access control.
In an All IP network, building management and technology-related devices communicate over Ethernet/Internet Protocol (Ethernet/IP) with the building LAN (Local Area Network) providing the physical communication layer as well as Power over Ethernet (PoE). IP devices and networks speak the same language ‘end to end. That means no ‘translation’ is required between sensors, end devices, servers, cabling, and operating systems. Comparatively inexpensive devices and systems that work with Ethernet/IP technology can be used.
Introducing smart, converged networks also enables new energy-conserving technologies and applications such as intelligent management of building space and resources. IoT (Internet of Things) with built-in intelligence, AI integration, and data collection is rapidly changing Building Automation Systems, helping save energy, increase sustainability, reduce the chance of human error, enabling faster response times and easy customization, and making buildings more manageable, flexible, and future-ready.
Digital Ceiling as a platform for building automation will keep growing
New Wireless LAN standards are demanding more bandwidth at the access level. At the same time, constant technology changes are taking place as well as changes in how buildings are used and managed require enhanced network flexibility.
The «ALL-IP» approach previously described extends the data network and PoE through an entire building’s ceiling, making it possible to connect devices to building automation via zones with pre-installed overhead connecting points. «Plug and Play» connection of network switches, sensors, controls, WLAN access points, and other distributed building services remove barriers and reduce costs low cost. Devices are immediately powered and connected to the network. SPE will complement existing Digital Ceiling installations and cover the last meters in a high-density «ALL-IP» environment.
The «Digital Ceiling» will increasingly provide services that building occupants and managers are going to need in the near future and for years to come, enhancing user experience while reducing energy usage, making maintenance, and adding new devices faster and easier, lowering installation and device costs, increasing layout flexibility, and providing a more comfortable, healthier working environment. The digital ceiling is an open, unified platform, so building managers and application developers can continuously find new ways of integrating functionality. Power-saving technologies and applications can be introduced, such as intelligent management of building space, resources, and PoE-powered LED lighting.
Field-terminable copper technology connectors for greater flexibility
When working on network rollouts in office or business premises, data centers, or production facilities, installers frequently need to make on-the-spot decisions. Cabling links may suddenly have to be altered or extended. A customer may want to add individual installations independently of the planning. Cables might have to be provisionally laid and directly connected. Inability to make the required changes can mean severely affect rollout time, efficiency, and cost.
In the past, installers’ options and flexibility were often limited by product characteristics. The need to make connections quickly and easily at any location has resulted in increasing demand for copper field termination, giving users and customers significantly greater independence. Ideally, field terminable copper cables should feature universal connection solutions for all applications and standardized connectors such as RJ45 for twisted-pair copper cabling and require no special tools or training. SPE cabling can be easily and quickly used in the field this way, enabling 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and 1 Gbps transmission speeds.
PoE standards to be pushed further
As more Wireless Access Points and devices (with IP addresses) are introduced in line with the growth of Wi-Fi 6, 5G, IoT, Smart Buildings and Cities, Industry 4.0, and more, the need for Power over Ethernet (PoE) or Power over Digital Line (PoDL) is growing. Not only is the number of devices growing – higher levels of power are being demanded everything from computers to digital signage.
Facilitated by current network convergence trends, PoE can help reduce power usage. Numerous building and network constructions and renovations are expected to adopt the technology due to its core benefits of reliability, flexibility, and easy installation.
According to Expert Market Research, the global market for PoE solutions is expected to grow at a CAGR of some 13% between 2022 and 2027, reaching a value of around US$ 1.86 billion by 2026. Technavio puts the industrial PoE market at US$ 135.24 million during 2021-2025, progressing at a CAGR of almost 6%.
New generations of high-power PoE will have a considerable effect on infrastructure. Today’s Power over Ethernet (PoE) provides more than three times the level of power than the previous standard – and more than six times the level of the initial PoE standard. To handle increased temperatures, cable type, bundle size, cable duct properties, link lengths, and other factors must be considered.
Planners and end-users will also need to consider the new Remote Power categories in the EN 50174 series of installation standards, which define the capability of an installation to support the different types of PoE. Individual channels that meet EN50173-1, using connectivity according to IEC 60512-99-2, will support the highest level of PoE (4PPoE with 90W).